We all know how intimidating it can be to drive next to a semi-truck on the highway. These massive vehicles are the powerhouse of the American economy but can be extremely dangerous, accounting for 500,000 vehicle accidents a year. An accident can happen at any moment. Are you prepared for what comes next?
If you were injured in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, you have a legal right to pursue compensation for your losses. Jeff Hunter, one of the Alabama truck accident lawyers of Floyd Hunter Injury Law, recently appeared on WNCF ABC 32 with host Ellis Eskew to discuss what to do after being involved in a truck accident. If you missed the segment, don’t worry. Here are Jeff’s insights broken down into three important steps:
Step #1: Seek Medical Attention
It’s incredibly important that you seek medical attention after being hurt in a truck accident, or any accident for that matter. Your health and safety are the number one priority. Failing to seek medical attention can not only damage your physical health but also your chances of receiving compensation. Any delays can cause the trucking company or its insurance carrier to believe your injuries either aren’t serious or didn’t result from the accident.
Step #2: Keep Detailed Records
Jeff highlighted a very important point in his segment: documenting the accident. It’s important to keep detailed records and document everything related to your truck accident. This can include witness information and statements, medical records, and any expenses that resulted from your injuries. This information can act as evidence and may support your claim down the road.
Step #3: Know Your Rights
As Jeff stated, you’ll likely hear from the trucking company or its insurance carrier in the days following your accident. One of the most important things to know after a truck accident is that you’re NOT obligated to speak with the insurance adjusters and it’s in your best interest not to speak with them unless you’ve consulted an Alabama truck accident lawyer first.
If you aren’t sure whether you have a case or if the insurance company isn’t offering you a fair amount for your losses, call our experienced attorneys at Floyd Hunter Injury Law.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
Truck accidents tend to be far more complex than regular motor vehicle accident cases. This is because the amount of damage a semi-truck can do to a passenger car is staggering. And with greater injuries and damages comes higher medical and repair bills.
Another reason these cases tend to be more complex is that there are vast federal regulations that govern the trucking industry and, as Jeff mentioned, these rules are often violated. A lawyer will know these rules and if they’ve been broken.
Lastly, there are multiple parties that may be at fault in a truck accident. From the truck driver, the trucking company, or the broker that negotiated the truck’s freight, identifying who’s liable for your accident can be tricky. That’s why it’s so important to have the right lawyer on your side.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident involving a semi-truck, our Alabama truck accident lawyers will make sure you aren’t being taken advantage of by the insurance company. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance adjusters, our legal team can provide relief during this difficult time.
Call our law office at (334) 452-4000 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case evaluation today!
